Repetitive Cuts Using A Stop Block

By Robert Robillard on Workshop tips

cut off sled stop block

Stop Blocks For Multiple Same Size Cuts

It is hard to beat a crosscut fixture sled for making cross cuts SAFELY on the table saw. You can make your sled cut with  zero tolerance to the blade for less tear-out and accurate cuts. I make repetitive cuts using a stop block, here’s how.

Repetitive Cuts Using A Stop Block

Table saws are not well suited for cross cutting; which refers to cutting a board along its short dimension.

A crosscut sled is a solution to this dilemma and a very useful table saw accessory that allows its user to make clean accurate cuts. You can quickly make precise right angle cuts time after time on a cross cut sled.

Building one is easy and can be done in about 2 hours with scrap material, there are numerous plans on the web showing you how to do this.  I use my cross cutting sled so much that I have a second table saw dedicated to it.

Using A Stop Block

When using the cross cut sled to make multiple same size cuts it’s essential that you  get in the habit of using a stop block.

Stop blocks allow you to make accurate, repetitive cuts time after time.  This is crucial when building bookcases or built-in cabinets and many of the components need to be the exact same size [i.e., shelves, shelf nosing, etc]

I  screw a long piece of 3/4 plywood to my sled, as an extension arm, with a few screws and then use a C-clamp and a simple stop block I made from e scrap material. The stop block slides up and down my extension arm to the needed dimensions.

This is a simple, no nonsense approach to making consistently accurate cuts every time.

Repetitive Cuts Using A Stop BlockRepetitive Cuts Using A Stop Block


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About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

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